Bellamy Deal Closer For Cardiff City

Cardiff City's hopes of securing a return for last season's captain Craig Bellamy took a step closer today following a meeting between Bellamy and Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini.

The pair fell out when the Italian joined the club, initially over training methods. Bellamy was left out of City's 25-man squad last year paving the way for a shock move to South Wales. Man City paid the vast majority of his £80k per week wages during the loan but were understood to prefer a permanent move this time around.

Today's meeting appears to have been productive with 'The Fourth Official' tweeting:

'Craig Bellamy has told Manchester City he wants to join Cardiff, the club will now look to sort out a deal.'

Transfer speculation in the newspapers and especially online is on the verge of farcical with rumours, guesswork and fabrication rife. However, this source retains credibility and can be relied upon to have some substance.

Bellamy's unwillingness to be away from his family has severely hampered his options with a host of Premiership clubs interested, as well as the likes of Feyenoord and Celtic. There remains a long way to go if any deal is to be done, but at least the wheels now appear to be in motion.